There are many different types of climbing, such as Sport
Climbing, Traditional Climbing, Bouldering and more.
My favourite type of climbing is Lead Climbing, which is a type of
Sport Climbing where I clip into pre-drilled permanent bolts while
ascending the route. Sometimes, I boulder. Bouldering does not
require clipping into bolts, nor does it require a harness.
Climbing has seen rapid growth over the last few years. This can be seen through the number of climbing gyms that has opened in my city over the past few years. Climbing made its debut as an Olympic sport in the 2020 Tokyo Summer Olympics.
I love climbing because it is both a physical and mental challenge.
Not only do I get a full-body workout, but I am also able to train
my mental stamina and strength.
For example, I have to overcome my fear of falling and fear of
heights, and also consistently push myself to persevere and not give
up on a climb when it gets challenging. I also enjoy the problem
solving parts of climbing as routes and climbs can be very
different!
Best of all, the sense of accomplishment when you send a new
problem (climber talk for climb/finish a route) is the best feeling
ever, especially if you've been working on it for weeks (or
months!).
Climbing shoes
Chalk bag
Harness
Belay device
Rope
Helmet (if outdoors)
In 2020, I broke my foot while bouldering. I didn't land properly and
had 3 metatarsal fractures in my right foot.
I had to take
6 months off climbing but as soon as I was fully recovered, I went
right back into climbing again!